Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, or LASIK, has revolutionized vision correction, offering a life-changing solution for millions of glasses and contact wearers worldwide. Yet, depside its proven efficacy and widespread success, myths and misconceptions are often spread that can deter individuals from exploring this transformative procedure. As the first practice to perform LASIK in Minnesota in 1994, Minnesota Eye Consultants is dedicated to dispelling these myths and providing accurate information to individuals interested in LASIK.
Myth #1: LASIK is Painful
Fact #1: In reality, LASIK is essentially painless. Patient knowledge and comfort is an important part of the LASIK journey. Before surgery, patients may be offered a mild sedative medication to calm anxiety in addition to numbing eye drops to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Most patients report feeling nothing more than slight pressure during the surgery, and any discomfort experienced afterward is typically mild and short-lived.
Myth #2: LASIK is Not Safe
Fact #2: LASIK’s safety and efficacy is well-documented by a vast body of scientific literature – more than 7,000 studies have been conducted. This research includes clinical trials from the U. S. Food and Drug Administration, as well as independent studies conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense. Our surgeons at Minnesota Eye Consultants are leaders in the field of ophthalmology with years of experience and a commitment to adhering to strict safety protocols. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and conduct thorough preoperative evaluations to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients.
Myth #3: Recovery is Slow
Truth #3: LASIK is an outpatient procedure meaning no overnight stay is required. A typical LASIK surgery lasts less than 15 minutes. After the procedure, the patient will return home to recover with no driving or strenuous activity. With the cornea being the fastest healing tissue in the human body, the recovery period is typically 12-24 hours.
Myth #4: LASIK Can Damage Your Eyes
Truth #4: While every medical procedure carries risk, complications from LASIK are very rare and sight threatening complications are less than 1%. In fact, roughly 91% of LASIK patients report no complications at any time, while 98% say they have no complications, or the issues are seldom problematic. Overall, nearly all side-effects from LASIK are resolved within a few weeks of the procedure.
Myth #5: Doctors Recommend LASIK for Everyone
Truth #5: Our providers at Minnesota Eye Consultants perform detailed consultations before LASIK surgery is scheduled. They check for stable vision, corneal thickness and shape, tear production, pupil size, and more. The goal of these tests is to determine whether your eyes are healthy and to rule out possible problems like dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and other disorders. At the end of the consultation, you’ll know if you are a good candidate and meet LASIK requirements.
If you are not a good candidate, your doctor may discuss other options to help you see clearly. With an array of LASIK alternatives offered at our practice, our doctors will help you find a way towards clear vision.
At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their LASIK journey. Don’t let myths hold you back from experiencing the life-changing benefits of LASIK with Minnesota Eye Consultants! Take the next step towards clear vision today by either taking our LASIK self-test or calling 952-888-5800 to schedule a consultation. You can also request an appointment online through our website here.
